2012 Hyundai Santa fe problems
The Hyundai Santa Fe (Korean: 현대 싼타페) is an automobile produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 2000. It is a five-door crossover SUV that either has front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. It is named after the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and was introduced for the 2001 model year as Hyundai's first SUV. The Santa Fe was a milestone in the company's restructuring program of the late 1990s because the SUV was a hit with American buyers. Between 2006 and 2012, the Santa Fe was positioned between the smaller Tucson compact crossover and the larger Veracruz.
The third-generation Santa Fe introduced in 2012 was available in two versions, which are regular (short) and extended long-wheelbase version. The short model was sold as the Santa Fe Sport in North America (three-row seating was not available) and simply Santa Fe in global markets (three-row seating was standard or optional), while the extended long-wheelbase model is called the Santa Fe in the US, Santa Fe XL in Canada and called the Hyundai Maxcruz in South Korea. The fifth and current generation was released in 2023 and omits diesel engines in favor of petrol hybrid powertrains.
As of 2022, the Santa Fe is positioned between the smaller Tucson – which the Santa Fe shares platform with – and the larger Palisade in Hyundai's global crossover SUV line-up.
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Common 2012 Hyundai Santa fe problems
The Hyundai Santa Fe, a popular SUV, has had its share of problems over the years, with engine issues being the most prevalent. The 2012 model year stands out as the worst, with engine failure being the most frequently reported problem.
Another issue reported by Hyundai Santa Fe owners is a blown engine, with the 2014 model year being particularly affected. The average cost to fix this problem is $7,500, with an average mileage of 61,000 miles.
In addition to engine problems, the Hyundai Santa Fe has faced other issues. A failed fuel gauge is another common problem, with some drivers reporting that their fuel gauge does not read correctly.
It is important to note that not all Hyundai Santa Fe owners experience these problems, and many report that the vehicle is a solid and reliable choice. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues, particularly with the 2012 model year, to make an informed decision. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help prevent or address these problems, ensuring a more reliable and satisfying ownership experience.
What is the most common problem with a Hyundai Santa Fe?
Some of the common issues reported by owners, according to RepairPal, include: Transmission Problems. Engine Issues. Suspension Problems.
How long should a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe last?
Hyundai Santa Fe
Another Hyundai SUV that's known to last a long time is the midsize Santa Fe. The average lifespan of this popular SUV is 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 to 17 years. It can probably reach beyond 250,000 miles if you're a mindful driver who keeps up with routine maintenance.
Is there any recalls on 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
What is the fuel efficiency of a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Hyundai Santa Fe 2012 Fuel consumption
The Hyundai Santa Fe currently offers fuel consumption from 6.6 to 9.6L/100km. The Hyundai Santa Fe is available with the following fuel types: ULP and Diesel.
2012 Hyundai Santa fe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Santa fe problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Hyundai Santa fe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Hyundai Santa fe
The NHTSA has received 338 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Hyundai Santa fe. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Hyundai Santa fe vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-03
- VIN: 5XYZK4AG3CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing electrical failures. The contact stated that the 12 Volts battery was replaced several times. Additionally, the contact stated the battery terminals were corroded only few weeks after the battery replacement. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics, where the cause of the battery failures could not be determined. The battery was replaced; however the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was provided. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-02
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB7CG
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Getting occasional knocking sound while vehicle is running and immediately even when the vehicle is turned off. Sound is emanating from the rear of the vehicle (gas tank).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-20
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB3CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Purchased this used 2012 Santa Fe directly from Hyundai last January (2023) We have had to continually fill it up with oil. Two months ago, driving to work and the car stops accelerating and felt like the “power was going out”. I was on a busy highway early in the morning when it died on me. Took it to a nearby mechanic and it threw engine failure pins. There was no oil so we added more oil and it drives but will not exceed 50 mph and goes out at any given time.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-29
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB5CG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: I have complained about this previously to recall, and it's doing it again. My engine shut off while driving its happened on the Fred harrman bridge twice now. All the dashboard lights come on and the engine shuts off I had to put it in neutral and restart it. It very dangerous and scarey experience. Also one of my passerger head light doesn't come on sometimes and the back driver side tail light. I can get out and hit it then it will come on. I have been pulled over by the police for it once before I told them it works just hit it. He did told me to get that fixed and gave me a warning. I can't afford to eletbeledtrical done little alone an engine please help. Call should have the first report as well.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB7CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe into the dealership on March 7, 2024. The engine had failed due to the failure of the connecting rod bearing that is under recall. On April, 6th 2024 I was called that my car was ready. As I got into the car there was a coffee cup, a water bottle, and a long nose plier left in my vehicle. Then I noticed that the tire pressure warning light was on. I went back to the service department, and they went to refill the air. Note the paperwork shows that it had already been done. I got the car back and proceeded to leave, I traveled about two blocks before turning around. The right front turn light was out, and the car made a vibrating noise, and didn't have the same feel as before I had the engine problem, they took it back in to look at the vehicle again. They fixed the turn light. Told me the problem with the TPMS was the batteries inside it. As for the vibration and poor handling I was told the vehicle needed new motor mounts, and said they would fix it for three thousand dollars. Looking up the part numbers of these motor mounts, they are labeled as engine mounts, the engine is what was replaced. None of these problems existed before I brought my car in. The last item on the paperwork was that of a multipoint inspection. If they had inspected my vehicle, these problems would have been found before returning my car to me. I don't feel safe driving my car.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB5CG
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine will RANDOMLY CUT OFF AND IT WOULD DO THAT EVEN WHEN IN DRIVE LIKE IT WASNT GETTING GAS. The dash board would light then continue going WOULD START RIGHT BACK AWAY AND HAS DONE THAT EVER SINCE.i purchased it I ALSO HAD THE O2 CENSOR REPLACED AS WELL. THE TIRES ARE AWFUL THE SUSPENSION. Electrical Problems I have to hit my headlight to come on before I leave when it's dark. Sometimes when I first start driving it pulls me to the right not like wheel balancing . But pulld then back to driving . One last thing I went in for recall update or something. The mechanic say hell do the update and drive the car if it has a problem going in drive they had to replace a sensor or something my car wouldn't move they were going to fix it and give me a loaner car . The guy said let me try something he did then the car started to drive. They were supposed to replace something and didn't. My engine light came on and stayed on I complained to him he just cleared the code it came back on and has been on every since. I told him it want on before I got here he said well it wasn't from anything they did. But it was.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB8CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My 2012 Santa Fe check engine light came on a few weeks ago and put the car into engine protection mode. This car is less than 15 years old, has under 150,000 miles, has had reasonable upkeep. I am only the second owner. I was able to check the code myself and did so. It was P1326, which in a Hyundai vehicle means that there's a problem with the connecting rod bearings and it needs to be taken to the Hyundai dealership while in limp mode. I did so and they replaced the knock sensor, cleared the code, and sent me on my way. The check engine light came back less than a week later, same issue. The dealership told me that at this stage the Hyundai tech repair line suggests replacing the engine at an enormous cost. However, because my car can pass the BCT (bearing clearance test) Hyundai will not pay for the replacement of the engine because it cannot be said that the connecting rod bearings are the issue. When I asked why I needed to replace the engine, the service advisor was unable to explain which part of my engine was broken and just that it all needed to be replaced or the car would continue to show code P1326 and go into engine protection mode, rendering it unusable. This has been incredibly unsettling for me as a recently separated mother of two. I have been without my vehicle and without income for weeks while trying to contact Hyundai. They are claiming this repair has nothing to do with the THETA II engine recall out for my model year. All advisors have been pressuring me to purchase a new vehicle, but I do believe the reason I cannot use my vehicle is because of the THETA II engine defects and the P1326 code that will continue to render my car unusable. This code when cleared without fixing the problem, has caused my car to go into engine protection mode (unable to accelerate past 2,000rpm) on the freeway, which was dangerous for myself and other drivers on the road as well as terrifying.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-07
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB7CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: coincidentally after 11-months after a software update for that knock sensor now I do have a problem with that knock sensor by having to be replaced. Total cost of repair: $643.90 (Vehicle broke down, my SUV went into limp mode meaning loss of power/acceleration, I needed a tow. The engine malfunction indicator light in the dashboard was blinking on & off.)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-04
- VIN: 5XYZKDAG9CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Per the mandated law in September of 2001 all vehicles sold in the United States are required to have a trunk release on the inside. The 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe does not. The 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe small SUV are very known for the lights to go out due to condensation in the tail lights. So needless to say it was built poorly as an owner like myself has to constantly change the tail lights or be rear-ended because I have NO brake lights. To me this is a serious issue. One that Hyundai has failed to correct. However, I recently took my vehicle in to be serviced and to have the tails lights changed. The dealership Lithia Hyundai of Alaska informed me they could not do them because I had to much water in the tail light cover and that they couldn't get into the trunk due to my junction box having failure. Well I suggested they fix the light cover and change the bulbs so I wouldn't get hit from the back. Service advise there was NO way to open the trunk from the inside. That I had to pay 5000.00 to fix one part to be able to open the trunk. I advised that was illegal per NHTSA and they stated they never heard of that. I would like to make this complaint because even though I cannot get one thing fix I should still be able to get my trunk open from the inside, to fix my brake light bulbs.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-12
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB4CG
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. No warning light was illuminated. The contact looked in the rear-view mirror and became aware that the spare tire had detached from the vehicle. The contact was able to drive to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed due to a diagnostic fee being charged. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,250.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-02
- VIN: 5XYZK4AG9CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Have to put oil in the engine every 4-6 weeks. Car burns oil quickly. Exhaust smokes. Replaced pcv valve and that did did not resolve the smoking/oil consumption despite being told that was the issue. Now being told I need 1100 in engine cleaning costs to remove sludge due to the oil not circulating properly. I have to constantly monitor the engine oil. Told my warranty does not cover the cleaning to resolve issue. Car smokes often upon turning it on
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB6CG
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: When my daughter returned home from college this summer I took her Santa Fe to a local shop for an oil change and other preventive maintenance. During the vehicle safety inspection, the mechanic noted the subframe and front suspension components were failing due to excessive corrosion and the Santa Fe was not safe to drive. My question is about the effectiveness of Campaign 947 - Underbody Corrosion Prevention Service. The countermeasure to the Hyundai subframe rusting issue appears to have not been an effective action to prevent the subframe's failure. The Corrosion Preventive Service was completed on our Santa Fe on Feb 13, 2018. Given the amount of corrosion on our Santa Fe, the Service Campaign was not effective, and the subframe failed due to corrosion. Both the independent shop and the Hyundai dealer indicated that the failed subframe would eventually lead to a catastrophic failure and possible loss of control of the vehicle. Given my daughter drives the Santa Fe from home to school on I70 I am glad the failure was identified early so the car could be repaired and prevent an accident.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-28
- VIN: 5XYZHDAGXCG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Brake lights keep failing. Have replaced wiring harness, bulbs and brake switch twice now. Super unsafe to not have brake lights on your vehical
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-18
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB4CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Vehicle would not go in park only drive and neutral.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-09
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB5CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my 2012 to Baytown Hyundai for a recall update. MPI Inspection (1) had no problem with the car before taking it in. They did inspection then it started running super slow would not pick up speed. They were going to give me a loner car. The mechanic tried update again then the car drove ok. Didnt even leave the parking lot engine light came on turned around he checked with BDO. Code P200A came up. They are saying it's my responsibility to fix it. There were no codes when I brought my car in. I read I should not drive the car with this code could damage it more . My heart is bad I have to get back and forth t my doctor appointments. How are they not responsible . It's to dangerous to drive it now.Please help.me
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-26
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB6CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine and oil warning lights were illuminated before the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, the oil displayed full. The contact then stated that the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that no oil pressure was detected, and the contact was informed by the technician of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) which was associated with the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-28
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB4CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: In June 2021 vehicle experienced engine failure at approximately 152,000 miles. Vin# not under Hyundai Engine recall however Hyundai covered new engine replacement under warranty extension due to failure. In November 2022 received notice for mandatory Knock Engine Sensor Detection Campaign, vehicle had approximately 163,000 miles. Was told this must be performed to prevent catostrophic engine failure. Once campaign was installed in December 202 vehicle immediately went into Drive Safe mode and Engine light came on. Returned to dealership 2 more times and each time vehicle went into Drive Safe mode with engine light. Diagnosis was the new engine was defective and needed to be replaced. New engine has under 12,000 miles. Vehichle is now unsafe to drive as it's in Drive Safe mode and needs engine replacement. Hyundai only agreed to cover 85% of the new engine cost as a goodwill. This is not satisfactory to the customer as a brand new engine, under 12,000 miles and 14 months failed and I do not feel I should be responsible for 15% of the cost to replace a defective engine. The fact that the engine light came on and vehicle went into Drive Safe mode immediately following the KSDS campaign installation means there was an existing defect in the engine that was only detected once the campaign was installed.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 5XYZH4AG1CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My oil pressure sensor light wont turn off sometimes blinks on and off or stays on and I am concerned because it could be engine component or electrical. i have nott aken it to hyundai dealer do do an inspection
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-19
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB8CG
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: After driving for a short time, the engine stalls while driving. We have taken the car to 4 different mechanics, including the Hyundai dealer and the issue has not been fixed. The car stalls every time it is driven.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-13
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB5CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, she heard an abnormal popping sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The contact was unaware of a warning light being illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The mechanic advised the contact that there had been a recall for the year, make and model of vehicle however, the VIN was not included. The mechanic related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine). The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 199,000.
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-04
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB7CG
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Driving on highway and car engine light came on then car engine kicked down like it was going to stall then drove normally then kicked down again . Kept kicking down , drove it home and shut it off. The car starts but is knocking and the engine light comes on and blinks constantly .
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-27
- VIN: 5XYZK4AG6CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that upon exiting the vehicle, all four doors and tailgate would lock independently. The contact stated that over some time, all four doors failed to unlock while outside the vehicle with the key fob. The contact was only able to unlock the driver’s side door with the key. The contact had initially taken the vehicle to a dealer where she was informed that the door actuator needed to be replaced; however, after the repair, the failure persisted. The contact then took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it remained in their possession. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-07
- VIN: 5XYZK4AG4CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I bought the car used and initially didn't have any issues with it. About a year into having the vehicle I saw that the battery light came on momentarily and then went off. Not noticing anything different with car I thought it was no issue initially. Got the car checked battery checked out after I noticed it happen a few more times but the battery passed testing. Eventually the right headlight stopped working. Thinking it was just an issue with the light I attempted to replace it but the light never came back on. Then the left turn signal stopped working. Got the car checked out and was told that the issue was more than likely an issue with the wiring, either a short or potentially burned wire. Took the car to my local dealer and was told the the headlight assembly was the issue and that it would about 1400 to 1500 dollars to replace. Told the dealer what I was told about the wiring issue and was told that I would have to pay for that and the headlight assembly if replacing the headlight assembly didn't fix the issue Managed to get the headlight assembly replaced on my own and the issue still persists. After initially changing the assembly the headlights worked, but on of the running lights wasn't as bright as it should have been. Here recently the right headlight is out again, along with the left taillight and left turn signal.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- VIN: 5XYZGDAB0CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that after NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) was completed and driving at approximately 70 mph, there was a loud abnormal noise under the vehicle and the steering wheel began to shake. In addition, the dashboard was hot to the touch. The contact merged into the shoulder of the road and the vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the rod bearing fractured and detached causing a hole in the engine. The engine and rod bearing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-19
- VIN: 5XYZG3AB9CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard a knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and a bearing test was performed; however, the vehicle failed the test. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact was also informed that the vehicle had experienced the failure stated in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer stated that they were holding the engines for vehicles under the recall. The contact mentioned that an unknown software update was performed and the vehicle was serviced under TSB: TXXM. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was out of warranty. The failure mileage was 174,067.
2012 Hyundai Santa fe recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Hyundai Santa fe.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
- Consequence: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.
Negative 2012 Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
Positive 2012 Hyundai Santa fe car reviews
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I use this car to tow my raft for fishing, haul my dog for exercise, retrieve groceries for my wife, and for general transportation. I have put 40,000 miles on this car without the need for virtually any repairs. The vehicle has been regularly maintained with oil changes and periodic mileage driven inspections. It also has new all-season tires.
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I purchased this car used when it was 9 years old. After a few months, the rear transmission coupler failed, which is a common issue with this car. However, the dealer I bought the car from (a small local car seller, not a Hyundai dealer) offered to repair it for free. They replaced the coupler, and since then, I have driven 30,000 miles over 2 years without any issues, just normal maintenance like brakes and oil changes. Additionally, Hyundai updated the computer software and conducted a general safety inspection for free due to a recall on this model. They even extended the warranty to 15 years or 150,000 miles, regardless of the owner. I absolutely love this car! It has a spacious cabin, a huge trunk, and a very responsive engine (even though it's a 4-cylinder). It performs great on tough roads. I would buy another Santa Fe in a heartbeat! The only downside is that the basic model lacks electronics, such as a rearview camera, and only has a small computer board integrated into the odometer. However, you can easily install a new GPS system, which is not expensive nowadays. Overall, it's a great car for active people and makes me feel safe.
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I absolutely adore this car! Although it's 14 years old and I've had to replace many parts, I could say the same for many cars its age. The biggest issues were it chewing up alternators in its younger years and a gasket problem in the engine, needing the whole thing replaced (at ~140k mileage). However, I've never had any issues getting stuck in the snow living in Minnesota where you'll get 10 inches at once. Even when I got rear-ended so hard that I slid into the car in front of me, crushing the frame in a spot, I was completely unharmed and the trunk still opened and closed just fine (though the front end did take a good hit). I've even moved other stuck cars with a tow rope, loaded piles of junk and supplies for home improvement (including almost 300lbs of soil) and faced no issues. With its 8 inch clearance, I've crawled over obstacles and rocks, waded through a flooded road, and refused to get stuck in the snow and ice with AWD/4WD capacity. This car may not turn heads, but it sure will do what you need it to!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with two Hyundai Santa Fe's that I've owned. The first one was a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe 4x2 2.4 Limited (Guatemalan market version). It was a good car with normal gas mileage, but I did feel a lack of power. However, it did have a 3rd row seat which came in handy. If I had the chance, I would have loved to get the USA Santa Fe's version. Unfortunately, at 100,000kms, the engine blew and I had to rebuild it at a cost of $1,500. On the other hand, I bought a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 3.5L V6 and I absolutely love the power of the engine and the comfortable ride. I bought the car on copart and brought it to my country. I have enjoyed this car for almost 4 years and haven't had any problems apart from regular maintenance, tires, oil changes, and suspension. Thanks for listening to my story!
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Good car with a smooth ride and an affordable price. Although there is a bit too much plastic, it still offers a lot of value for the money.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Hyundai Santa fe problems:
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Electrical Accessories · Exhaust · Drive System · Fuel System/Emissions · Engine Major · Brakes · In-car Electronics · Steering ...
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Mar 25, 2022 ... I have a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited 3.5L V6 with 68k miles that I recently got used. I've noticed some problems that I would love ...
Common Problems? - Hyundai Forum - Hyundai Enthusiast Forums
Hyundai Accent - Common Problems ... , 02-15-2012 09:56 PM. Junior Member. Hi, I ... Is there any Common problem with 2007 Santa Fe · Back to ...
Other years of Hyundai Santa fe
Are you having problems with your 2012 Hyundai Santa fe?
Vern Metz 2024-10-28
Our 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe's radio stopped working about 7 weeks ago, after 4 1/2 years of use. Although the dealer offered to help us for the cost of a new system, Hyundai declined to assist us since the warranty for electronics is only good for 3 years. Despite this setback, we remain confident in the quality of Hyundai's vehicles and look forward to continuing our relationship with the brand.
Zackery Wilkinson 2024-09-09
Despite its comfortable appearance, the 2012 Santa Fe has some issues with its craftsmanship and design. While the car performs well, the electronics and switches are subpar, and there have been constant recalls. However, it is worth noting that the car has not had any major mechanical issues. The handling is okay, but there is some body sway on corners. Winter driving is also okay, but winter tires are highly recommended for heavy snow areas. The Blue Tooth set-up and navigation are not the best, and the appointments such as switches and controls are second-rate at best. Although adjustments for things like auto door locks are non-existent, the car is still a good option for those who do not mind these minor issues. If you are looking for a car to keep for an extended period of time, the Santa Fe may not be the best option for you. However, it is still a decent car to consider.
Marco Gottlieb 2024-08-26
The 2012 Sante Fe GLS AWD V6 is a decent small SUV for the money. While it may not excel in any particular area, it still offers good value. However, there is room for improvement in terms of build quality, exterior and interior design. The doors and suspension feel a bit tinny, and the engine is just okay. Overall, it may not be the most fun to drive, but it's a solid choice for those on a budget.
Quinton Jacobson 2024-08-14
The GLS model 2.4 engine has experienced some issues, including continuous air conditioner problems and TPMS problems. Unfortunately, these issues were not covered under the warranty. Additionally, the cruise control has been known to shut down, causing the car to go to idle, which can be dangerous, especially on a busy highway. Despite spending a small fortune to get these issues repaired, the TPMS light came on again just three weeks later. As a result, I have decided not to purchase any more Hyundai vehicles in the future.
Leonel Nicolas 2024-05-17
I am sorry to hear about your experience with your 2012 Santa Fe. It must have been a very stressful situation, especially considering that you are 8 months pregnant. I hope you and your baby are doing well. It is unfortunate that the engine failed and that the repairs are going to cost so much. Have you tried reaching out to Hyundai again to see if they can offer any assistance? I understand your frustration with the situation, but I hope that you are able to find a solution that works for you. Thank you for sharing your experience and the links to the articles. It is always helpful to be informed when making decisions about purchasing a car. Take care.